How to Budget for Study Abroad Living Costs in Dubai

With universities such as the University of Dubai, the American University in Dubai, and Middlesex University Dubai offering globally accredited degrees, Dubai’s rich culture has attracted many people from around the world to choose the city as a destination for international education. 

World-class universities, a safe city, and tremendous professional opportunities make Dubai a top study destination, but it’s no secret that the city can be expensive. If you want to study there without money stress, the difference between enjoying the experience and constantly worrying about bills comes down to one thing: a realistic, flexible budget.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about budgeting for life as an international student in Dubai,  from typical monthly living costs and one-time fees like visas and insurance, to money-saving tips and part-time work options.

How much do students typically pay in Dubai?

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• Tuition (for international students): varies widely by institution and course — many programmes range from AED 40,000 to AED 80,000 per year (some professional degrees can be higher).
  
  
• Estimated monthly living costs for a student: AED 4,000–7,000 (~USD 1,090–1,900) depending on housing choices and lifestyle. This includes rent (shared), food, transport, utilities, study materials and modest socialising.
  
  

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1) Housing: your most significant single expense 

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Options & typical costs

• University dorms / on-campus housing: often the cheapest and most convenient (AED 2,000–4,000/month depending on the university and room type).
  
  
• Shared private apartments: share a 1–3 bedroom apartment with flatmates — expect AED 2,500–5,000/month depending on the neighbourhood (Deira, Al Barsha, Dubai Marina vary widely).
  
  
• Private studio/1-bedroom: AED 4,000+ per month for central areas.
  
  

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How can you save money on housing in Dubai?

• Live near a metro station — rent may be slightly higher, but you’ll save on transport.
  
  
• Consider university notice boards / Facebook groups for cheaper listings and to find flatmates.
  
  
• Negotiate upfront: Many landlords expect annual contracts, but are willing to negotiate a monthly break clause or a lower deposit.
  
  

2) Food & groceries: budget for smart eating

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Estimated cost: AED 800–1,500/month if you cook most meals; eating out frequently can significantly increase or double this cost. 

How to save

• Shop at big supermarkets (Carrefour, Lulu, Union Coop) and take advantage of their weekly promo days.
  
  
• Meal prep and buy staples in bulk (rice, pasta, frozen veg, chicken, etc.).
  
  
• Use student meal plans when available — campus cafeterias are usually more affordable than restaurants.
  
  

3) Transport: use student NOL cards and public transit

Dubai’s metro, bus and tram run on the Nol card system, and students typically receive concessions. Student NOL cards offer steep discounts on fares, making public transport more affordable. 

Estimated cost: AED 200–400/month with a student Nol card if you commute daily.

Tips

• Get a student NOL card as soon as you arrive.
  
  
• Use monthly passes if you commute daily — cheaper than pay-as-you-go.
  
  
• Walk or cycle short distances whenever possible.
  
  

4) Utilities, internet & mobile

Estimated cost: utilities (if sharing) AED 200–400/month; SIM/data bundles start cheap — prepaid data packages available from Etisalat and Du (student promos often available). 

Tips

• Share bills with flatmates and set simple rules about AC usage.
  
  
• Buy student-friendly mobile bundles (many are AED 30–50/month).
  
  

5) Health insurance & medical costs

Health insurance is required for a student visa in the UAE — universities either provide a student medical plan or ask you to arrange cover. Budget AED 500–2,000 per year, depending on coverage

Tip: Confirm what your university covers before purchasing an additional policy.

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6) Tuition, visa & one-off fees

• Tuition: plan for annual fees and split large payments across semesters if allowed.
  
  
• Student visa & medical tests: include visa fees, medical testing, and Emirates ID processing. These are one-off but essential costs. Student visas to Dubai typically cost between AED 5,000 and AED 15,000.
  
  
• Initial setup/deposit: most properties require a security deposit (usually 5%–10% of annual rent) and agency fees if you used one.
  
  

7) Can international students work in Dubai?

Yes, international students can work in Dubai, but they must follow UAE rules and obtain a work permit through the Ministry, where required. Part-time options vary and typically limit hours; check current MoHRE / university guidance before accepting paid work. Part-time work helps cover living costs, but it shouldn’t be relied on to cover tuition. 

You can also look for on-campus roles, tutoring gigs, or internships related to your course; they're often more flexible with student schedules.

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8) Practical monthly student budget (example)

This sample illustrates a mid-range student lifestyle — adjust up or down based on your preferences.

• Accommodation (shared) — AED 3,000
  
  
• Utilities & internet — AED 350
  
  
• Groceries & food — AED 1,000
  
  
• Transport (student Nol) — AED 250
  
  
• Phone & data — AED 60
  
  
• Study materials & incidentals — AED 200
  
  
• Entertainment / social — AED 400

Total: AED 5,260 (~USD 1,434) per month

If you add tuition, divide annual fees across 12 months to know your “monthly all-in” cost.

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9) Money-saving strategies & tools 

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1. Open a multi-currency account

‍Use Pesa’s multi-currency account to keep funds in USD/GBP/CAD and convert when exchange rates are favourable — this can hedge against currency fluctuations and inflation back home. (Using digital multi-currency wallets is especially helpful for students receiving family support in other currencies.)

2. Use budgeting apps

‍Apps like Mint, YNAB, or Goodbudget help you track real spending and set limits.

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3. Time your currency conversions

‍If your family sends money from abroad, consider converting larger sums when exchange rates are favourable rather than making multiple small conversions.

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4. Use student discounts & campus deals

‍Obtain your student NOL card, university discount cards, and review local student offers (including software, travel, and food).

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5. Scholarships, grants & bursaries

‍Apply widely — many universities in Dubai and external organisations offer scholarships for international students.

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10) Emergency fund

Set aside 3–6 months of living costs if possible,  otherwise aim for a starter emergency fund (AED 2,000–5,000). Knowing you have a buffer reduces stress and improves focus on studies.

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11) Checklist: before you fly

• Confirm tuition payment schedule and due dates.
  
  
• Arrange a student visa and check what it includes (health cover, work rights)
  
  
• Book temporary accommodation for arrival (first 2–4 weeks).
  
  
• Apply for the student NOL card on arrival.
  
  
• Set up a local bank account (if needed) — many banks have student plans.
  
  

Dubai is an expensive city, but it can be managed with proper planning. Budget realistically (use the AED 4,000–7,000 monthly range as a guide), prioritise housing and food savings, use student-specific discounts (NOL card, campus offers), and use multi-currency tools to protect your funds from exchange volatility.